Top 10 Handyman Certifications

Certifications for a handyman are important in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to complete certain tasks. They provide potential employers with evidence that a handyman is qualified to work on specific projects. Certifications also show potential customers that a handyman is experienced and trustworthy, which can help increase their confidence when hiring them for a job. Finally, certifications can help differentiate one handyman from another in a competitive job market, making it easier for customers to find the right fit for their needs.

This article reviews the top certifications for Handymans and explains how they can help advance a handyman's career.

What are Handyman Certifications?

Handyman certification is a type of professional certification that is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the various skills needed for basic home repair and maintenance. This type of certification typically involves taking a course or series of courses, passing an exam, and obtaining a certificate from an accredited organization. The courses cover topics such as carpentry, electrical wiring, plumbing, painting, drywall installation, flooring installation and more. Having this type of certification can help handymen demonstrate their competence to potential customers and employers. It can also provide them with a sense of confidence and pride in their work. Additionally, having a handyman certification may be required by some states in order to legally perform certain types of repairs or services. Having this type of certification can also help handymen secure better job opportunities and higher pay rates.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a certified handyman, make sure to obtain the necessary certifications from accredited organizations. Many states require that you possess a certain number of certifications in order to become a licensed handyman. Additionally, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices in order to provide quality service to your clients.

Related: What does a Handyman do?

Top 10 Handyman Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Handymans today.

1. National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) Certification

The National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes home improvement professionals who have demonstrated their commitment to quality and professionalism. This certification is awarded to those who have met the NHIC’s rigorous standards for excellence in the home improvement industry.

It typically takes between four and six weeks to complete the certification process, depending on how quickly you can provide all of the required documentation. The first step is to submit an application, which includes providing proof of insurance and a background check. Once your application is approved, you will be required to complete an online training course and pass an exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your NHIC Certification.

The cost of obtaining NHIC Certification varies depending on the type of business you are running and the size of your team. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1,000 for individuals and $2,500-$5,000 for businesses with multiple employees.

In addition to receiving recognition for meeting high standards in the home improvement industry, having NHIC Certification also allows you to access exclusive resources such as discounts on products and services from leading suppliers in the industry. It also provides peace of mind that your customers can trust that they are working with a certified professional who has been trained in best practices and safety procedures.

2. National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Certified Handyman

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Certified Handyman is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the repair and maintenance of residential properties. This certification is designed to ensure that handymen are knowledgeable, experienced, and qualified to perform basic repairs and maintenance on homes.

To become an NAHB Certified Handyman, applicants must meet certain criteria including a minimum of two years of experience in the home repair or maintenance industry, successful completion of the NAHB Certified Handyman Exam, and proof of insurance coverage. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC systems, appliance repair, painting and drywall installation. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass.

It typically takes about four weeks for applicants to receive their NAHB Certified Handyman certificate after passing the exam. Applicants may also be required to take additional courses or complete additional requirements before being certified.

The cost for taking the NAHB Certified Handyman Exam varies by state but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD depending on location and other factors. Additionally, there may be fees associated with additional courses or requirements needed for certification.

3. American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Certified Handyman

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Certified Handyman is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform home inspections. The ASHI Certified Handyman program was created to provide a way for handymen to demonstrate their expertise in home inspection services.

To become an ASHI Certified Handyman, individuals must complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by ASHI. The training program typically takes about 40 hours to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as building codes, safety standards, electrical systems, plumbing systems, HVAC systems, roofing systems, and more.

In order to get certified, individuals must submit an application along with proof of completion of the approved training program and pay a fee of $250. After submitting their application and paying the fee, applicants can expect to receive their certification within two weeks.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification through continuing education courses every three years. They must also adhere to ASHI's Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice when performing inspections or providing advice on home repairs or maintenance.

4. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Handyman

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Handyman is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to become successful in the construction industry. This certification is designed to help those who are interested in becoming a handyman or home repair specialist.

The NCCER Certified Handyman program consists of four core modules, each of which must be completed before being eligible for the final exam. The four core modules include: Basic Safety, Basic Construction Math, Basic Hand Tools, and Basic Power Tools. Each module includes online instruction, hands-on training, and an assessment. Once all four modules have been successfully completed, the individual can then take the final exam to become a certified NCCER Certified Handyman.

The entire process typically takes between 8-12 weeks to complete depending on how quickly you complete each module. In order to get started with the program, individuals must register through NCCER's website and pay a registration fee of $199 USD. After registering for the program, individuals will receive an email with instructions on how to access their course materials and begin their studies.

Once all four modules have been successfully completed and the final exam has been passed, individuals will receive their official NCCER Certified Handyman certificate as well as a wallet card verifying their certification status.

5. Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) Certified Handyman

Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) Certified Handyman is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to safely perform electrical work. The ESFI Certified Handyman program is designed to ensure that individuals have the necessary training and experience to safely work on electrical projects.

The ESFI Certified Handyman program consists of three parts: a written exam, an online course, and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as basic electrical theory, safety practices, and the National Electrical Code. The online course provides an in-depth look at how to safely install and troubleshoot electrical systems. Finally, the practical exam tests the individual’s ability to correctly install and troubleshoot electrical systems in a real-world environment.

The ESFI Certified Handyman program typically takes about two weeks to complete. During this time, individuals must complete all three parts of the program in order to receive their certification.

In order to get certified as an ESFI Certified Handyman, individuals must first register for the program by visiting the ESFI website or calling their customer service line. Once registered, individuals will be provided with access to all of the materials needed for each part of the program. After completing all three parts of the program, individuals will receive their certificate in the mail within four weeks of completion.

The cost for becoming an ESFI Certified Handyman varies depending on where you live and which materials you purchase for each part of the program. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $150-$500 USD depending on your location and what materials you choose for each part of the program.

6. Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) Certified Handyman

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) Certified Handyman program is a certification program for professionals in the plumbing, heating, and cooling industries. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in these areas. The program is designed to ensure that those working in these trades are properly trained and qualified to do so.

To become PHCC Certified Handyman, an individual must complete a series of courses and pass a written exam administered by the PHCC. The courses cover topics such as basic plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC systems, safety practices, customer service, and business operations. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the field or related training from an accredited institution.

The entire process typically takes about six months to complete. Once the coursework has been completed and the exam passed, applicants will receive their PHCC Certified Handyman certificate.

The cost of becoming a PHCC Certified Handyman varies depending on the courses taken and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$3000 USD depending on what is required for certification in your area.

7. Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Handyman

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Handyman is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the inspection, cleaning, and restoration industry. This certification is designed to ensure that individuals are knowledgeable about the most current practices and procedures for conducting inspections, cleaning, and restoration services.

To become an IICRC Certified Handyman, applicants must complete a training course that covers topics such as safety regulations; inspection techniques; cleaning methods; and restoration processes. The course typically takes between two to four days to complete depending on the specific curriculum. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass a written exam with a minimum score of 70%.

In order to apply for the IICRC Certified Handyman certification program, applicants must submit an application along with proof of completion of the training course. The cost of the program varies depending on the training provider but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

8. National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) Certified Handyman

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) Certified Handyman program is an industry-recognized certification program for roofers and other contractors who are skilled in a variety of roofing and construction tasks. This certification is designed to provide assurance to customers that the contractor they hire has been properly trained and certified in a variety of roofing and construction tasks, including installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and safety.

To become NRCA Certified Handyman, applicants must complete a training program that covers topics such as: roof types, materials, installation methods, safety practices, codes and regulations. The NRCA also requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the material covered in the training program.

The NRCA Certified Handyman Program typically takes about three months to complete. It includes both online courses and hands-on training at an approved NRCA facility.

To get started with the program, applicants must first register with the NRCA by submitting an application form along with proof of experience or education in the field. Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive access to online course materials and will be assigned a mentor who can help guide them through the process.

The cost of becoming an NRCA Certified Handyman varies depending on how much experience or education you have prior to enrolling in the program. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1,000 USD for all course materials and exams required for certification.

9. Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) Certified Handyman

Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) Certified Handyman is a certification program designed to recognize handymen who have demonstrated excellence in their craft. The program is open to all qualified individuals who have at least three years of experience in the painting and decorating industry.

The PDCA Certified Handyman designation requires candidates to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the painting and decorating trade, including knowledge of tools, materials, safety practices, customer service, and other related topics. The program includes an online course as well as an in-person exam that must be passed before certification can be obtained.

The online course typically takes about six weeks to complete and covers topics such as basic math, estimating projects, surface preparation techniques, proper application techniques for various surfaces, color theory, customer service basics, and safety protocols. The in-person exam consists of multiple choice questions and hands-on demonstrations that test the candidate’s knowledge and skillset. Upon successful completion of both the online course and the in-person exam, the candidate will receive their PDCA Certified Handyman designation.

The cost for the PDCA Certified Handyman program varies depending on where you take it; however most programs cost between $400-$500 USD.

10. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Handyman

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Handyman program is a certification program that provides training and recognition to individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of home improvement and repair. This program is designed to help ensure that all home improvement and repair projects are completed safely, efficiently, and with the highest quality of workmanship.

To become an NFPA Certified Handyman, individuals must complete an approved course of study from an accredited institution or organization. The course typically consists of up to 40 hours of instruction on topics such as electrical safety, plumbing safety, carpentry basics, tools and equipment use, and more. Upon completion of the course, applicants must pass a written exam to earn their certification.

The cost for the NFPA Certified Handyman program varies depending on the institution or organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more for the entire course and exam.

Once certified, NFPA Certified Handymen are recognized as having met industry-recognized standards for safe home improvement practices. They may also be eligible for certain discounts on insurance premiums or other benefits from local businesses or organizations.

Do You Really Need a Handyman Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's needs. Handyman certificates are not required by law, but they can be useful in certain situations. A handyman certificate can demonstrate that a person has the skills and knowledge needed to perform certain tasks. It can also provide proof of training and experience in a particular field of work.

For some people, having a handyman certificate is important for obtaining certain jobs or contracts. For example, many landlords require prospective tenants to have a valid handyman certificate before they will rent their property out. Similarly, some contractors may require employees to have a valid handyman certificate in order to work on their projects. In these cases, having a handyman certificate can make it easier for an individual to secure employment or contracts.

For other individuals, having a handyman certificate may not be necessary. For instance, if someone only needs to do minor repairs around the house, such as replacing light bulbs or tightening screws, then they likely do not need a handyman certificate. However, if someone wants to take on larger projects such as installing new appliances or remodeling rooms in the home, then having a handyman certificate could help prove that they are qualified and knowledgeable enough to complete the job safely and correctly.

In conclusion, while it is not legally required for someone to have a handyman certificate in order to perform certain tasks around the home or workplace, it can be beneficial in certain circumstances. Having a valid handyman certificate can make it easier for an individual to obtain certain jobs or contracts and also demonstrate that they have the necessary skills and experience needed for specific types of work.

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FAQs About Handyman Certifications

1. What is a Handyman Certification?

Answer: A Handyman Certification is a credential that shows a professional has the knowledge and skills to perform basic home repairs and maintenance tasks safely and correctly. It can be obtained through an accredited training program or by passing an exam.

2. Is a Handyman Certification required?

Answer: In some states, a Handyman Certification may be required to perform certain types of work, such as plumbing or electrical work. Check with your local government for specific requirements in your area.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time needed to obtain a Handyman Certification can vary depending on the type of certification you are seeking and the institution offering the program. Generally, most programs require at least 10-20 hours of coursework or hands-on training.

4. How much does it cost to get certified?

Answer: Costs will vary depending on the type of certification you are seeking and the institution offering the program; however, typically costs range from $50-$500 for most certifications.

5. Where can I find an accredited program for my certification?

Answer: You can find accredited programs for Handyman Certifications from organizations such as Home Improvement Contractors Association (HICA), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) and many other trade associations and educational institutions across the country.